Posted!

Join the Conversation

Taliban video shows Bergdahl release

A video released by the Taliban Wednesday shows the terror group releasing Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl to U.S. forces. The Obama administration's trade of five Guantanamo detainees for Bergdahl is the source of much criticism from lawmakers and others.

William Cummings, USA TODAY 4:30 p.m. EDT June 4, 2014

In this image taken from video obtained from Voice Of Jihad Website, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, stands with a Taliban fighter in eastern Afghanistan. The video purportedly shows the handover of Bergdahl from the Taliban to U.S. forces.(Photo: Voice of Jihad website via AP)

Pentagon press secretary Rear Adm. John Kirby said the video was being reviewed and added that there was no reason to doubt its authenticity.

"Regardless, we know the transfer was peaceful and successful, and our focus remains on getting Sgt. Bergdahl the care he needs," Kirby said Wednesday.

RAW VIDEO:

The Taliban have released a video showing the handover of American soldier Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl in Afghanistan. (June 4)
AP

Bergdahl is currently in stable condition at a military hospital in Germany.

Bergdahl, 28, was released in exchange for five Taliban commanders who were being held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Taliban leader Mullah Mohammad Omar described the release of the five Taliban officials from Guantanamo as a significant achievement for the movement, in a statement released to the AP. The Taliban said the exchange was greeted with "great happiness and joy,"

In this image taken from video obtained from Voice of Jihad website, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl sits in a vehicle guarded by the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan.(Photo: AP/Voice Of Jihad Website)

The Army has said it plans to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bergdahl's capture amid accusations that he had deserted his post.